Understanding Computational Thinking Outside the Classroom: Capturing Learning Vignettes in a Public Library Programming Club

• In Event: Poster Session 14
  In Poster Session: Poster Session: Research on Innovations in Learning Technologies

Abstract

This study explores how children approach and develop computational thinking as a result of their participating in a computer science after-school program in a public library offered through a university-library partnership. Specifically, this work captures learning vignettes that exemplify children’s growing understandings of computational concepts, practices and perspectives. Data were collected from multiple sources, including children’s computational artifacts, children’s interviews and program observation fieldnotes. The study findings provide insights on understanding children’s CT development outside the classroom. Additionally, findings have implications for the design and implementation of effective learning experience that broaden children participation in computing.

Authors

• Hui Yang, University of Delaware

• Chrystalla Mouza, University of Delaware

• Lori Pollock, University of Delaware